Making the invisible visible: why menopause is a workplace issue we can't ignore

Laker, B. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0850-9744 and Rowson, T. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1605-2927 (2024) Making the invisible visible: why menopause is a workplace issue we can't ignore. BMJ Leader. ISSN 2398-631X doi: 10.1136/leader-2023-000943

Abstract/Summary

This commentary confronts the often-ignored issue of menopause in the workplace, a matter affecting a significant number of professional women. It critiques the cultural and institutional oversight of menopause as a symptom of entrenched ageism and gender bias. This silence is a continuation of historical gender discrimination, leading to a work environment that overlooks the needs of women undergoing this transition. We call for a leadership-driven change in dialogue, recognising menopause as a normal life stage and advocating for workplace policies that support women without compromising their professional identity. Menopause should be understood with the same sensitivity as invisible disabilities, necessitating similar accommodations and empathy. Additionally, the commentary examines the medicalisation of menopause. What is already known on this topic – There is recognition of the challenges faced by women at work, but the specific issue of menopause has been insufficiently addressed within professional settings. What this commentary adds – This commentary broadens the discourse, highlighting menopause as a significant yet overlooked factor in women's professional lives. It calls for leadership to foster a workplace culture that acknowledges and supports menopausal women, promoting a shift in policy and practice. How this commentary might affect research, practice, or policy – The perspectives offered could guide research into the wider effects of menopause on workforce participation. Practically, it urges leaders to develop inclusive policies and cultures that support menopausal women, influencing organisational policies and health programmes to retain their expertise and contributions.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/116974
Identification Number/DOI	10.1136/leader-2023-000943
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Henley Business School > Leadership, Organisations, Behaviour and Reputation
Publisher	BMJ Publishing Group
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